COME FROM AWAY - The Lowry, Salford (04/12/24)

It really is the best positive stereotype that Canadians are the nicest people in the world, and in the face of perhaps the worst act of terror in modern times, devastating thousands of lives in north America, the unbridled kindness, generosity and humility displayed by the tiny community of Gander, Newfoundland was one of the great shining lights in such a moment of darkness; Irene Sankoff and David Hein's musical Come From Away in so many ways epitomises this notion and sentiment.

Set in the immediate aftermath of 9/11, Come From Away is based on real stories told by both those whose flights were redirected, and the people who welcomed them into their home, seeing a community of 9000 in rural Canada almost double in the space of 24 hours; this is what makes the show so endearing, as it’s a testament to the endurance of the human spirit, displaying the best of humanity with its heart on its sleeve.

Sarah Poyzer and the company of Come From Away (credit: Craig Sugden)

Whilst amendments were made from the London production, most notably the removal of the revolve, these were barely noticeable, as the show has been re-choreographed to adapt to touring venues, and this is managed expertly. But as ever it’s the cast who truly sell this show, Mark Dugdale reprises his role from the west end, so wonderful to see him back in the show; he was joined by some truly terrific new performers, in particular Jamal Zulfiqar as Kevin J, etc, I felt gave a sassy yet emotionally complex performance.

Kirsty Hoiles as Diane was both riotously funny and sincerely humble in equal measure. But for me Bree Smith as Hannah was the highlight, especially in terms of vocals, she gave a rounded, musically and emotionally mature performance, and her delivery of the more heart wrenching moments was at times truly devastating, there can't have been a dry eye in the house during "Something's Missing".

The company of Come From Away (credit: Craig Sugden)

As for the band under direction of Andrew Corcoran, there surely aren’t many other shows where they have quite as much fun, all of them terrific musicians, but unlike traditional musicals, we feel they’re fully part of the action, most notably during “Heave Away/Screech In”, adding so much to the already considerable charm of the show. This is a musical that warms your heart and proceeds to smash it into pieces several times over, and it’s one with which I’m always happy to go on such a journey.

★★★★★

"Come From Away" runs at the Lowry until the 5th of January